If your shop feels like a scavenger hunt for tools, you’re not alone. Fix these five layout mistakes and you’ll save steps, avoid frustration, and actually finish projects.
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Bad workflow/tool placement: If wood has to do an obstacle course to become a project, your layout is backwards. Place tools along the natural path a board takes: unload, break down, machine, assemble, finish.
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Ignoring dust collection and hookups: Ducts, hoses, and clear paths for dust collection matter more than fancy tool upgrades. Plan tool orientation so hookups are simple and cleanup is fast. If your shop is small you may only need a few flexible hoses and can ditch the permanent ducting.
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Poor lighting and workbench placement: Bad light creates mistakes. Put good fixtures where you actually work (and favor consistent, shadow-free lighting). Natural north light by the bench is a bonus.
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No dedicated storage/cluttered bench: Storing projects or tools under the bench or in piles steals time and space. Design storage that keeps your workbench clear and tools reachable.
- Committing to permanent layouts too early: Live in the space a bit before you bolt everything down. Flexible setups let you learn what actually works. Better yet, make your furniture mobile (when possible) so switching up the layout is a breeze.
For 3 Woodworking Cheat Sheets that are essential in my shop, check out the Woodworking Cheat Sheet Bundle. It includes a Janka Hardness Scale, Fraction Conversion Chart, and Dimensional Lumber Cheat Sheet. All of which are super helpful before and during a project.
Happy Building.
- Thomas Gojkovich
Thomas Custom Woodworks